C/ Barrionuevo, 22.

Perpendicular to Calle Agustín Moreno, which, as mentioned in previous texts, serves as the backbone of the Santiago neighborhood, is Calle Barrionuevo. There, José Luis Muñoz and his wife Inés await us at their home at number 22.

A Family Linked to Art

José Luis belongs to a family of renowned artists, such as Rafael Serrano Muñoz, one of the most influential painters of the second half of the 20th century in Córdoba, or Juan Serrano, also a painter and member of the famous Equipo 57. For him, his patio is not only a place for socializing but also for reflection and, of course, expression.

Art and Creativity in the Patio

The artistic concerns of José Luis and his son are reflected directly and indirectly in the house’s patio, such as the fountain, made by them: “We used an old capital and a specially made sculpture, modeled after his own sister.”

A House with History

It is an old house, renovated in the 1980s, like most in the Santiago neighborhood. However, its patio is not located at the entrance leading to the home, as is usually the case; instead, to access the patio in question, one must pass through the house.

Patio Description

The floor of the Patio at Calle Barrionuevo, 22 has two levels separated by a small front made of old bricks, with clay tiles on the top and “olambrilla” tiles on the bottom. On the front wall, two blind ogival windows stand out as decorative elements, along with flowerpots and climbing plants found on all the walls, bringing great harmony to the plants and flowers that inhabit the patio: mock oranges, bougainvilleas, peace lilies, geraniums, hydrangeas, carnations, ivy geraniums, fuchsias, carnations, and petunias. Additionally, and this gives the patio a unique touch, we were struck by the wide variety of bonsai trees—trees that, as everyone knows, require great care—and we spotted them in various parts of the patio.

Decorative Elements

At the same time, other types of decorations stand out throughout, such as small sculptures, various earthenware jugs, different ceramic plates, some traditional kitchen items (coffee makers, pots…), and the stoves on one side, with some pieces of firewood, giving the place a more rustic appearance and adding even more charm to it.

Recognition and Awards

José Luis and Inés have received numerous awards thanks to their dedicated efforts. “We complement each other… I usually do the planting and he takes care of the maintenance,” Inés tells us. In fact, they have won first prize on three occasions: 2000, 2006, and 2008.

Visiting the Patios of Córdoba

If you’re wondering what to do in Córdoba, we recommend visiting the Patios of Córdoba by booking one of our guided tours. We will dedicate a special section to the Patio at Calle Barrionuevo, 22. Choose quality tourism with qualified staff—don’t hesitate, ArtenCórdoba is the best option.

Text: J.A.S.C.